Large-scale software development projects have myriad layers, steps, and tasks – all of which must be coordinated and timed so the process flows and deadlines and customer requirements are met without any show-stopping obstacles.
They can be complex, with vast scopes of work, as teams are charged with developing systems that support multiple simultaneous users. To best plan and execute such projects, know the latest tech trends, set clear goals and timelines, and have the right tools and resources available.
How to Manage Large-Scale Projects Effectively
Addressing the Challenges
Speaking of obstacles, some of the common challenges to development project success include:
Scope Creep
Scope creek happens when clients or other stakeholders change the original project scope after project execution has started. Such changes can affect a project’s schedule, budget, or resource allocation and may compromise the completion of key goals.
- To prevent scope creep, have definitive versus vague requirements about what needs to be done and by when.
- Specific, clear, and timely communication is key. For instance, as soon as a single task deadline has been missed, this should be conveyed immediately to the project manager.
Limited Stakeholder Involvement
All project stakeholders should sign a charter stating that their active participation is required throughout a project. Likewise, stakeholders’ supervisors must be on board, acknowledging the priority nature of a project and committing to their employees’ availability. If possible, alternate and primary persons should be part of a project team to step in if and when needed.
Risk Management Shortfalls
Complex IT projects may be susceptible to unexpected things going wrong at some point. Be sure to implement a project risk management system that identifies potential risks and how to mitigate them.
Best Practices
Detailed reports, timely collaboration, functional test points, quality assurance, risk management … To keep everything on track and assure accountability, use a robust project too. Also, have regular meetings to allow team members to talk freely about progress.
- Hold a project kickoff meeting.
- Clarify the purpose of the project.
- Communicate regularly with all stakeholders.
- Formalize roles.
- Create a detailed work plan.
- Define quality standards and plan to test them as needed throughout the project life cycle.
- Create a risk management and response team.
- Document everything.
- Schedule routine check-ins and get feedback from team members and sponsors.
- Keep an eye out for scope creep.
Tools and Technology
Among the latest tools to keep large-scale IT projects on the schedule are:
Project management software options include:
Ready to Form Your Rockstar Team?
Like all critical business functions, software development is only as effective as the people who make it happen. If you need additional guidance in any aspects of IT project management – or professionals to round out your tech teams – contact Venteon Partners today. We specialize in matching top talent with industry-leading firms in Ohio, Michigan, and the Midwest.